One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop

Name: One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 4 cups water; 1 cup milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This One Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, made easy on the stovetop. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:06:38.515Z

One Pot Mac and Cheese is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of childhood meals. This simple recipe combines pasta, cheese, and a few other ingredients into a creamy masterpiece that's ready in no time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
Quick and easy to make in just one pot
Customizable with your favorite cheeses and add-ins

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's nothing quite like the warm embrace of a bowl of mac and cheese. This One Pot Mac and Cheese takes the traditional recipe and simplifies it without sacrificing flavor. Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike. It's a dish that evokes nostalgia while still being a modern, quick solution for busy weeknights.

The rich blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese creates a delightful creaminess that coats every piece of macaroni. Whether you’re coming home from a long day or just want to indulge in some comfort food, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal in no time. Plus, the one-pot method means less cleanup, making it a win-win for anyone who loves to cook.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the best things about this One Pot Mac and Cheese is its versatility. You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to spice it up? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick. Prefer a healthier version? Substitute whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese for a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Additionally, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for other ingredients. Toss in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition, or mix in protein such as cooked chicken or bacon to make it more filling. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a dish that fits your family's preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This One Pot Mac and Cheese is not only great for weeknight dinners but also perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. Its simplicity and flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, and your guests will love the creamy goodness that comes with each bite. You can easily double the recipe to serve larger groups, and it still holds up beautifully.

Moreover, the dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Just store in an airtight container in the fridge, and when you're ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop or microwave. It's a delicious way to ensure you always have a comforting meal on hand.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your One Pot Mac and Cheese:

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
4 cups water
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious One Pot Mac and Cheese:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, combine the elbow macaroni and water. Bring to a boil and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.

Add the Milk and Cheese

Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese!

Now you're ready to dig into a bowl of cheesy goodness!

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

To achieve the ultimate creamy texture in your One Pot Mac and Cheese, be sure to stir the cheese in slowly as it melts. This helps prevent clumping and ensures that every piece of pasta is evenly coated. Additionally, using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties can make a significant difference in texture and meltability.

Don’t be afraid to adjust the quantities of cheese to suit your taste. If you love a sharper flavor, consider adding more cheddar, or if you prefer a milder taste, you can increase the mozzarella. Experimenting with different cheese combinations can elevate your dish to new heights.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though it's hard to imagine there will be!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until creamy and heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious!

Serving Suggestions

To make your One Pot Mac and Cheese even more special, consider serving it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables. This adds a nice balance to the meal and incorporates more nutrients into your plate. For a fun twist, serve it in individual ramekins and top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese before baking for a crispy finish.

Pair your mac and cheese with a refreshing beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade, to complete the meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can use any cheese you like! Cream cheese, gouda, or pepper jack can add a unique flavor.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat it. Just add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.